COLLEGE PARK, Md. -
The men's and women's cross country teams will participate in the Charlotte XC Relays to open the 2003 season on Saturday. Hosted by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, the meet will feature a number of schools from North and South Carolina, in addition to the Terps.

The men's team from UNC at Charlotte earned their first-ever Conference USA championship last season, providing some tough competition for the young Terrapin squad.

The team, an intricate mixture of youth and experience, is ready for the challenge. Senior captain Mike Prada, junior Adam Ambrus and freshman Peter Hess are expected to lead the team into the next level, starting with this weekend's competition.

Both teams are traveling to North Carolina early to acclimate themselves to the increased altitude and train in a new environment. The route for this weekend's race runs through Footlocker South in McAlpine Greenway Park in Charlotte. The course is used for high school national championships and is considered one of the best in the area.

Following the Charlotte XC Relays, the Maryland Cross Country teams will participate in the Navy Invitational on Sept. 13.